Planning the Ultimate Backyard Wedding!
We recently published a blog post that detailed just some of the great things about planning a backyard wedding. And there are so many great things... The cost is low, it's a beautiful and very personal way to celebrate, it's unconventional but still traditional, it really sharpens those DIY skills... But where there are pros, there are almost certainly cons... However, we don't want to be negative so let's call them logistics. So here we go, 5 very important things to consider when planning your backyard wedding.
1. Landscaping
One of the best things about a backyard wedding is that it doesn't have to be perfect.
However, there are a few things you'll need to think about when it comes to your landscaping.
You want to make sure the ground is level enough for chairs, or a marquee (if you choose to go that way) and that the grass is neatly clipped and maintained. Think about the seasons! Are you having a Summer wedding in Australia?
Water restrictions will not be your friend! And an Autumn wedding could mean a lot of leaves that need to be raked up shortly before guests start to arrive. A Spring wedding? Try to time that baby so your flowers are timed to be blooming spectacularly.
It's a great idea to get a landscaper to consult on all of the above. But if you're choosing to do a backyard wedding to keep your costs down, some diligent googling (re seasons and flowering/ leaf falling) and a few working bees should get you're backyard up to wedding standard.
2. Toilets
If you're planning on having a large backyard wedding, you may have to think about additional toilet facilities.
A bit of a queue for the toilet isn't the end of the world unless you're wanting to get on with speeches or cake cutting and are having to wait for the toilet line!
If you're on good terms with your neighbours they may be happy to open up their house for you? And for the lads out there a tree is as good (or better?) than the walk to the toilet. Just bear in mind that late in the night you may have toilet issues!
3. The Legal Bits and Pieces
Check with your local council to see if there's any permits that you have to file and if there's any codes you have to follow (noise pollution, zoning laws...).
It's also a good idea to check that your home insurance covers you for accidents.
We all assume that everyone will behave themselves, and in Australia there is not a huge avenue or need to sue people, but best to be covered.
While we're talking insurance, check that any vendors are covered. Ask what insurance they carry, it may save you having to take out any supplemental insurance.
4. Parking
Parking can be one of your largest logistical nightmares when it comes to planning a backyard wedding. But it doesn't have to be.
People won't mind walking if you tell them in advance that it will be expected. They can always drop Grandmama off at the door and circle back around to park.
In the invitation it's perfectly fine to ask that people arrive with enough time to find a park and walk. It's also a good idea to give them a few ideas about where they can park in neighbouring streets.
For cars that need to be close by (errand runners, wedding cars) see if your neighbours are amenable to lending out their driveway and curb for the day.
5. Neighbours
While we're talking about asking the neighbours for favours... Let your neighbours know about your plans as early as possible.
You don't want Karen rampaging on the day because you're guests are interrupting her afternoon nap!
Closer to the date, think about giving them a written schedule so they can avoid running the Whipper Snipper while your trying to exchange vows!
6. The Aftermath
Clean-up. Now unless you've hired staff to set up, wait, pack down and clean up... this is going to be a big job.
Make sure you have plenty of strategically placed bins so that people can dispose of their empties properly. Assign a friend or family member to monitor and empty the bins as needed throughout the day.
And while you're at it, ask some friends to come and help with the next day clean up. People are happy to help, sometimes they just need to be asked.
7. In case of a rainy day
It is very important to have a plan B in place. You could get an unexpected heatwave or a downpour, you never know.
Moving the event inside is the easiest option, but not always possible.
If you haven't got the space inside, or you really want an outdoor wedding, having contingencies in place is a must.
Reserve a tent or marquee and book some umbrellas. If it's unseasonably cold think about hiring a few outdoor heaters. Too hot? A couple of industrial sized fans will make it manageable. Keep an eye on the forecast and your fingers crossed!
Good luck planning your backyard wedding! Let us know if these tips helped at all!